Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-Second State Legislature

Regular Session of 2003

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs, to which was referred S.B. No. 542, S.D. 1, entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to prohibit the labeling of agricultural products as "organic" unless the product meets federal labeling requirements.

Testimony in support of this measure was received from the Board of Agriculture, Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation, Hawaii Organic Farmers Association, and Kulamanu Farm. Testimony in opposition was received from Hawaii Bio Organic Growers Association.

This measure also requires registration of any certifying agent who certifies producers of agricultural products organically produced in Hawaii.

This measure is intended to complement and strengthen local enforcement of federal regulations relating to organic produce. This measure also assists in helping the State to obtain federal funding for certification costs. With a state organic program in place, Hawaii would be in a better position to procure federal funds directed at promoting the development of a strong organic agriculture industry in the State.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 542, S.D. 1, and recommends that it pass Third Reading.